On Wednesday, April 22, the California Supreme Court voted 4-3 to uphold a ruling requiring lifetime registration as a sex offender for certain sex offense convictions.

The court’s ruling reinstates a California law from 1947 that requires persons convicted of engaging in non-forcible oral sex with a minor to register as a sex offender for life.

This particular issue has come before the California Supreme Court on multiple occasions within the past decade. In 2006, the court voted 6-1 to overturn the old law.

However, as recently as January 29, 2015, with different justices on the bench, the court decided to reinstate the 1947 act, reversing its 2006 decision.

When the issue came before the court this past Wednesday, the justices decided by a narrow margin not to have a rehearing on its January decision, leaving the 1947 law in place.

Sex offender registration carries serious and extensive consequences. Housing and employment options are curtailed. Strict reporting requirements must be satisfied. Families can be disrupted. Depending on the offense, one’s status as a sex offender may appear in a public database.

If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges involving a sex offense, contact the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can provide knowledgeable and zealous representation in this area of the law.